President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony on Friday, November 13, 2026, at Naval Station Jose Andrada, 2335 Roxas Boulevard, Manila.
At a glance
- Event: Philippine Navy Change of Command and Retirement Ceremony, led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
- Date and place: Friday, November 13, 2026, Naval Station Jose Andrada, 2335 Roxas Boulevard, Manila
- New chief: Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier, welcomed as the Navy's 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command
- Outgoing chief: Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta, recognized for two years of service as Flag Officer in Command
- Call: continued strengthening of maritime security operations to keep Philippine waters safe and protect sovereign rights
- Source: Presidential Communications Office
The ceremony honored the retirement of Vice Admiral Jose Ma. Ambrosio Q. Ezpeleta as the Navy's Flag Officer in Command, while welcoming Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier as the service branch's 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command, according to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
Marcos Recognizes Ezpeleta's Two-Year Leadership
The PCO said President Marcos recognized Vice Admiral Ezpeleta's two years of service as Flag Officer in Command during the ceremony. The President thanked the outgoing chief for his service.
Under Vice Admiral Ezpeleta's leadership, the PCO said the Navy strengthened its external defense operations, enhanced its presence in the West Philippine Sea, acquired modern naval assets, upgraded its facilities, and expanded international maritime cooperation.
The PCO added that these gains provide a stronger foundation for the incoming leadership to further advance the Navy's capabilities and readiness.
Javier Welcomed as 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command
Vice Admiral Alan M. Javier was welcomed as the Philippine Navy's 42nd Flag Officer-in-Command during the ceremony, according to the PCO.
President Marcos thanked the outgoing chief and welcomed Vice Admiral Javier as the new Navy chief, the PCO said.
Marcos Calls for Stronger Maritime Security Operations
President Marcos called for the continued strengthening of the Navy's maritime security operations to help keep Philippine waters safe, protect the country's sovereign rights and safeguard the interests of Filipinos, according to the PCO.
The PCO further said the government is equipping the Navy through continued modernization and investments in its personnel to meet evolving maritime challenges and safeguard national interests.
Photo credit: Presidential Communications Office